Lawn and Garden Moisture Index 7/26/2010

The Alabama Office of the State Climatology at UA Huntsville issues a daily Lawn and Garden Moisture Index. This map is useful in determining soil moisture over large areas, and can be an early indicator of drought conditions. The map currently indicates lower than average soil moisture conditions for our area due mostly due to the prolonged heat this summer, which increases evaporation rates. It is important to remember, however, that this is merely a snapshot of current conditions, and does not indicate widespread drought conditions. Currently, every county in Alabama is free from abnormally dry conditions per NOAA. With summer in full swing, the take home message from this map is to remember to water early in the mornings and at dusk so that evaporation will be minimized and the maximum amount of water can be absorbed into your soil.